Are you tired of your old crochet projects feeling dull and uninspired? It’s time to spice up your creations with the exquisite Tunisian shell stitch! This elegant and versatile stitch pattern adds a touch of sophistication to any crochet project. To get started, all you need are Tunisian crochet hooks, and for an extra touch of warmth and comfort, we highly recommend using wooden crochet hooks.
For those who appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of wooden tools, wooden crochet hooks are an excellent choice. These hooks are attractive and provide a comfortable grip, ensuring hours of crocheting without hand fatigue. The smoothness of the wood allows the stitches to glide effortlessly, making it easier to create even tension and flawless stitchwork.
Now that your Tunisian crochet hooks are ready, it’s time to begin with the Tunisian shell stitch. Whether you’re planning to make a fashionable blanket, a chick scarf, or a stylish cardigan, the Tunisian shell stitch will add a tinge of style and trend to your project.
Steps of Tunisian shell stitch
In this step-by-step tutorial, we will guide you through creating the Tunisian shell stitch using single-ended crochet hooks or an interchangeable Tunisian crochet hook.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before we explore the Tunisian shell stitch, ensure you have all the necessary tools at hand. Depending on your preference, you can use either single ended crochet hooks (If you don’t have the Tunisian hook) or an interchangeable Tunisian crochet hook set. These tools are essential for maintaining tension and producing even stitches.
Step 2: Foundation Chain
Create a foundation chain with the desired number of stitches in the multiple of 5+2. The length of your chain will determine the width of your project, so keep that in mind. Ensure that the chain is not too tight or loose, as this will affect your shell stitch’s overall look and feel.
Step 3: Forward Pass
We will use the Tunisian simple stitch technique of drawing up loops in each remaining chain.
Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook and pull up a loop, leaving it on your hook. Repeat this step for each chain stitch until you reach the end of the row. This is called the forward pass and sets up the foundation for the shell stitch.
Step 4: Return Pass
Now that you have completed the forward pass, it’s time to start the return pass. Yarn over, or wrap the yarn around the hook and pull through one loop on the hook. Then, yarn over again and pull through two loops. Repeat this step until you have one loop remaining on your hook. This return pass locks in the rows and creates a stable foundation for the Tunisian shell stitch.
Step 5: Row 2
Insert your hook under the vertical bar of the next stitch, yarn over it, and pull up a loop. Repeat this process until you reach the end of the row. Remember to maintain consistency in your tension and stitch size for a polished, uniform look.
Step 6: Shell Stitch
To start the shell stitch pattern, we will do a different return pass than the normal one. Begin with chain 3, yarn over, and pull through the next 6 loops, then *chain 4, yarn over and pull through the next 6 loops. Continue from * until the last stitch.
Now you will have 2 stitches on your crochet hook, chain 2. Keep it loose, yarn over, and pull through those stitches.
Step 7: Row 3
Insert the hook in the first loop, yarn over, and pull through the loop. Repeat the process until the last remaining stitch.
Step 8: Repeat Rows:
You need to repeat step 6, Shell Stitch, and then do the same as step 7, row 3. Continue this until you get the desired length.
Step 9: Finishing Touches
Once you have completed all the desired rows of the Tunisian shell stitch, finish your project by binding off. This ensures that your stitches are secure and prevents unraveling. Simply work the basic bind-off technique, and you’re all set!
There is your lovely Tunisian shell stitch. Warp yourself in its beauty and enjoy. It is a true masterwork that will surely enthrall anybody who sees the beauty of Tunisian shell stitch. And, if you’re interested in discovering single ended crochet hook patterns, go to Lantern Moon’s website, which promises unlimited inspiration for crochet creations.
